...
Topic | Ask yourself | Possible approach |
|---|---|---|
Disclosing Indigenous Identity | What if I am asked to share my identity in an industry or organization that is not culturally sensitive? | There is no expectation for you to answer this question. Share only when/if you're comfortable. You can also decline. Add as much and as little of being Indigenous as you want. Both are valid forms of presenting yourself. We understand that these are not easy decisions. The Association for Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning BC/Yukon has a set of excellent resources. You may find the following resources on self-identifying useful: |
Your Values and Needs | Does the job description, industry and geographical location align with my values, needs, skills, and the impact I want to make on the world? | Choose an industry and organization where you see a value and needs alignment. This may help you flourish in your chosen career. |
Support Systems | Do I have the support to prepare my job application documents in a way that leverages my lived experience, academic strengths and prior work or volunteer experience? | For University of Waterloo students, the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre | Shatitsirótha' (WISC) is a great place to start. It is a safe space designed to encourage well-being. Searching and applying for jobs, finding a Work-integrated Learning (WIL) placement and building your career all require grounding, and we hope that you start from a place of strength. You can also contact Elder Myeengun Henry. He collaborates with the Office of Indigenous Relations and with the Faculty of Health community and identifies and contributes to building reciprocal and respectful relationships with Indigenous individuals and communities. Outside of the University of Waterloo, you can reach out to one of the organizations listed under our job boards section on this pagea job board organization, an Indigenous student support center or an Indigenous-focused employment center to seek support. |
...